Farmingville, NY - May 12, 2014 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone joined Legislator Tom Muratore, Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine, Councilman Kevin LaValle and other officials to complete a long-awaited parkland acquisition of a 15+ acre parcel behind Hawkins Path Elementary School in Selden. County and Town officials state that the new parkland will increase property values, protect open space and improve the quality of life for residents.

“This project is the result of a bi-partisan effort which will enhance recreational activities for Suffolk residents,” stated County Executive Bellone. “This is classic example of what the County and Town governments ought to be doing. Partnering to ensure we preserve open space as well as to provide premier park and recreational activities for our residents. I am happy to partner with Legislator Muratore, Hahn and the Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine to bring this vision to fruition.”

The County Executive praised “the dogged efforts” of Legislator Tom Muratore to the project.

“It's going to be a jewel in the Selden-Centereach area," Muratore said. "The community got behind us 110 percent and provided many letters of support. This was a team effort."

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine thanked the County Executive, legislators and local officials for their efforts and referred to the site as “our field of dreams.”

“We, with the county, are working to do many more of these projects together,” Romaine said.

“Twenty years ago I used to play little league baseball right on those fields and today we come back and are going to revitalize something that once was and create something brand new for Suffolk residents,” said Brookhaven Councilman Kevin LaValle. “I want to thank County Executive Bellone, Supervisor Romaine, Legislator Muratore for all their work. This continues to be a great partnership.”

“I remember six years ago discussing how do we get more space for our kids,” said Middle County School District Superintendent Dr. Roberta Gerold. “The time has finally come and it is an amazing achievement. On behalf of the Middle County school community, I thank everyone here for their hard work.”

Suffolk purchased the land from the Middle Country School District for $1.26 million. The funds were secured through the ¼ Drinking Water Protection Program for Environmental Protection. The County will enter into a municipal cooperation agreement with the Town of Brookhaven for the management and development of this parcel.